Trigliceridos/colesterol HDL: utilidad en la deteccion de sujetos obesos con riesgo para diabetes mellitus tipo 2 y enfermedad cardiovascular / Triglycerides/HDL cholesterol: utility for the detection of obese subjects with risk for diabetes mellitus type 2 and cardiovascular diseases / Triglicerideos/colesterol HDL: utilidade na deteccao de sujeitos obesos com risco para a diabetes mellitus tipo 2 e doenca cardiovascular

En la Republica Argentina, la prevalencia de obesidad se ha incrementado considerablemente y la de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DMT2) alcanza 12,7%. La obesidad presenta heterogeneidad y el aumento de la grasa abdominal puede incluir hipertrigliceridemia, hiperglucemia, disminucion de C-HDL, aumentos de apolipoproteina B (Apo B), aumento de lipoproteinas LDL pequenas y densas, hiperinsulinemia, insulino-resistencia (IR), estado inflamatorio cronico, estado protrombotico y otras alteraciones metabolicas, que se han reunido en el llamado sindrome metabolico con prevalencia del 20 al 40%. La resistencia a la insulina (IR) esta presente en 10 al 25% de la poblacion y se asocia con esas alteraciones. La determinacion de IR es compleja, necesita de internacion en clinicas y debe ser realizada por especialistas. En el laboratorio se puede estimar a traves del dosaje de insulina, pero no esta estandarizado, por lo que es necesario disponer de tecnicas sencillas y accesibles. La relacion trigliceridos (TG)/colesterol HDL (C-HDL) puede ser una opcion utilizando como valores de corte TG/C-HDL ≥2,5 en mujeres y ≥3,5 en varones. Se asocia significativamente con IR y enfermedad cardiovascular (ECV), tiene buena especificidad aunque bajo poder discriminador por lo cual cuando esta presente y existe riesgo de DMT2 o ECV deberia complementarse con el calculo del colesterol-no-HDL o Apo B y el colesterol remanente. Teniendo en cuenta la pandemia de obesidad y DMT2 y la elevada frecuencia de ECV, la relacion TG/C-HDL podria ser un marcador que deberia ser informado por el laboratorio bioquimico-clinico.

In Argentina, the prevalence of obesity has increased considerably and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DMT2) reaches 12.7%. Obesity presents heterogeneity and the increase in abdominal fat may include hypertriglyceridemia, hyperglycemia, decrease in HDL-C, increases in apolipoprotein B (Apo B), increase in small and dense LDL lipoproteins, hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance (IR), chronic inflammatory state, prothrombotic state and other metabolic alterations, which have been included in the so-called metabolic syndrome with 20 to 40% prevalence. Insulin resistance is present in 10 to 25% of the population and is associated with these alterations. The determination of IR is complex; it needs hospitalization and must be performed by specialists. In the laboratory, it can be estimated through insulin dosing, but it is not standardized, so it is necessary to have simple and accessible techniques. The triglycerides (TG)/HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio can be an option using TG/C-HDL cutoff values ≥2.5 in women and ≥3.5 in men. It is significantly associated with IR and CVD and has good specificity but low discriminating power. So when it is present and there is a risk of T2DM or cardiovascular disease, CVD should be complemented with the calculation of non-HDL cholesterol or Apo B and the remaining cholesterol. Considering the pandemic of obesity and DMT2 and the high frequency of CVD, the TG/C-HDL ratio marker should be reported by the biochemical-clinical laboratory.

Na Republica Argentina, a prevalencia de obesidade aumentou em forma consideravel e a de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DMT2) atinge 12,7%. A obesidade apresenta heterogeneidade e o aumento da gordura abdominal pode incluir hipertrigliceridemia, hiperglicemia, diminuicao do HDL-C, aumentos da apolipoproteina B (Apo B), aumento das lipoproteinas LDL pequenas e densas, hiperinsulinemia, resistencia a insulina, estado inflamatorio cronico, estado pro-trombotico e outras alteracoes metabolicas, que se encontraram na chamada sindrome metabolica, com prevalencia de 20 a 40%. A resistencia a insulina (RI) esta presente em 10 a 25% da populacao e esta associada a essas alteracoes. A determinacao da RI e complexa, precisa da hospitalizacao em clinicas e deve ser realizada por especialistas. No laboratorio, isso pode ser estimado atraves da dosagem de insulina, mas nao e padronizado, portanto e necessario ter tecnicas simples e acessiveis. A relacao triglicerideos (TG)/colesterol HDL (C-HDL) pode ser uma opcao usando como valores de corte TG/C-HDL ≥2,5 em mulheres e ≥3,5 em homens. Esta significativamente associado a RI e a doenca cardiovascular (DCV), possui boa especificidade, embora apresente baixo poder discriminador; portanto, quando esta presente e ha risco de DMT2 ou DCV, deveria ser complementado com o calculo do colesterol nao-HDL ou Apo B e o restante colesterol. Considerando a pandemia de obesidade e DMT2 e a alta frequencia de DCV, a relacao TG/C-HDL poderia ser um marcador que deveria ser relatado pelo laboratorio bioquimico-clinico.

Visceral obesity is not correlated with lymph node metastases nor Colorectal cancer survival / Obesidade visceral não está correlacionada a metastases nos linfonodos ou cancer coloretal

ABSTRACT Introduction: The presence of lymph node metastasis in colorectal cancer is determinant for prognosis and for treatment planning. The relationship between visceral fat and the prognosis is not fully documented in the literature, so this study intended to evaluate whether there is a relationship between the presence of visceral obesity and the presence of lymph node metastases and the prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer. Materials and methods: A sample of 68 patients who underwent surgery for colorectal cancer at Hospital de Braga between 1/1/2007 and 31/12/2007 was constructed, and their clinical and pathological data were recorded. Visceral fat, subcutaneous, and total fat areas were measured on preoperative computed tomography. Visceral obesity was defined as a ratio of visceral fat to total fat area >0.29. The ratio of metastatic lymph node (; number of metastatic lymph node/number of lymph node examined) was calculated. Results: There was a significant association between visceral obesity and male sex (p = 0.032). Patient survival at 5 and 10 years of follow-up was higher in patients with subcutaneous obesity in both periods, but not significant. There was a significant association between the ratio of metastatic lymph node and survival at 5 and 10 years (p = 0.03 and p = 0.002, respectively), with higher survival when ratio of metastatic lymph node = 0% and worse for ≥ 18%. Conclusion: In this study, no significant association was observed between visceral obesity and the number of metastatic lymph node, nor with survival at 5 and 10 years.

RESUMO Introdução: A presença de metastização ganglionar no câncer colorretal é determinante como fator de prognóstico e para planear o tratamento. A relação entre a presença de gordura visceral e o prognóstico não está totalmente documentada na literatura. Assim, pretende-se avaliar a existência de relação entre obesidade visceral e a presença de metástases ganglionares e o prognóstico de doentes com câncer colorretal. Materiais e métodos: Construiu-se uma amostra de 68 doentes operados por câncer colorretal no Hospital de Braga, entre 1/1/2007 e 31/12/2007, e registaram-se os seus dados clínico-patológicos e de seguimento. As áreas de gordura visceral, gordura subcutânea e gordura total foram medidas na tomografia computorizada pré-operatória. Obesidade visceral foi definida como um razão da gordura visceral relativamente à área total de gordura >0,29. Calculou-se a razão de linfonodos metastizados. Resultados: Verificou-se uma associação significativa entre obesidade visceral e sexo masculino (p = 0,032). A sobrevida dos pacientes, aos 5 e 10 anos de seguimento, foi superior naqueles com obesidade subcutânea em ambos períodos, contudo não significativa. Verificou-se uma associação significativa entre a sobrevivência em função da razão de linfonodos metastizados, aos 5 e 10 anos (p = 0,03 e p = 0,002; respectivamente), com maior sobrevivência quando a razão de linfonodos metastizados = 0% e pior quando ≥ 18%. Conclusão: Neste estudo não se observou uma associação significativa entre a obesidade visceral e o número de linfonodos metastizados nem com a sobrevida aos 5 e 10 anos.

Inter-relação de obesidade visceral, glúteo-femoral e doença periodontal em mulheres / Interrelationship of visceral, gluteofemoral obesity and periodontal disease in women

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a gravidade da Doença Periodontal (DP) em mulheres obesas, vivendo em uma uma mesma comunidade, com semelhantes hábitos e condições de vida e com amplo acesso à assistência médico-odontológica, considerando a distribuição de gordura corporal. Foram avaliadas 39 mulheres, 15 com obesidade visceral (OBV), 10 com obesidade glúteo-femoral (OBF) e 14 com peso normal (CON). Todas foram submetidas à avaliação periodontal e classificadas de acordo com o Índice Periodontal Comunitário (IPC). Medidas antropométricas e bioimpedanciometria foram realizadas para discriminar a regionalização da gordura corporal. Uma coleta de amostra sanguínea foi feita para dosagem glicemia de jejum e insulinemia a fim de se obter o cálculo do HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance) e quantificação laboratorial da resistência à insulina. Os três grupos foram comparados em relação à gravidade da DP. Foram realizadas análises de correlação entre o IPC e os seguintes parâmetros: Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC), circunferência da cintura (C), relação enter a circunferência da cintura/ e a circunferência do quadril (C/Q), percentual de gordura visceral em relação ao peso corporal (%GV) e HOMA -IR. O escore média do IPC foi significativamente maior (p = 0,0045) no grupo OBV do que no grupo CON. Não houve diferença no grupo OBF quando comparado ao grupo OBV e ao grupo CON. Houve correlação positivamente significativa entre o escore IPC (p = 0,0173), C/Q (p = 0,0004) e CC (p = 0,0082). Com esses resultados foi possível concluir que o presente estudo está de acordo com dados prévios da literatura que associam Obesidade à DP. Entretanto, o estudo fornece dados importantes, ainda não relatados, que sugerem que tal associação pode não ocorrer em todos os obesos, mas principalmente naqueles com acúmulo de gordura intra-abdominal(AU)

This study aim to evaluate the severity of Periodontal Disease (PD) in obese women from the same community, sharing the same life habits and life conditions and with broad access to dental-medical assistance, considering the distribution of body fat. 39 women were evaluated, 15 with visceral obesity (VOB), 10 with gluteofemoral obesity (FOB) and 14 with normal weight (CON). All were submitted to periodontal evaluation and scored according to the Community Periodontal Index (CPI). Anthropometric measurements and bioimpedanciometry were performed in order to discriminate the regionalization of body fat. A collect of blood sample was made for fasting dosage of glycemia and insulinemia for calculation of HOMA-IR determination and laboratory quantification of insulin resistance. The three groups were compared in relation to the severity of PD. Correlation analyzes were performed between CPI and the following parameters: Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist/hip circumference ratio (W/H), percentage of visceral fat in relation to body weight (%GV) and HOMA-IR. The mean CPI score was significantly higher (p = 0.0045) in the VOB group than in the CON group. There was no difference in the FOB group when compared to the VOB group and the CON group. There was a significant positive correlation between the CPI score (p = 0.0173), W/H (p = 0.0004), and WC (p = 0.0082). It was possible to conclude that the present study agrees with previous literature data associating Obesity with PD, however, the study provides an important data suggesting that such association may not occur in all obese individuals, but especially in those with accumulation of intra-abdominal fat(AU)

Impact of visceral obesity on the short-term outcomes after radical operation for mid-low rectal cancers / 中国肿瘤临床

Objective: To investigate the effect of visceral obesity on the short-term outcomes after radical operation for mid-low rectal cancers. Methods: We conducted a prospective study on patients who underwent selective rectal cancer resection at The Second Affili-ated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University between April 2017 and October 2018. The cutoff visceral fat area (VFA) for visceral obe-sity was≥134.6 cm2 for men and≥91.1 cm2 for women. Results: A total of 127 patients were included in the study, of whom 64 were diagnosed as having visceral obesity and 63 as having non-visceral obesity. The patients with visceral obesity had a higher body mass index (BMI) (P<0.001) than those without visceral obesity. The proportions of female patients and those who had a laparoscopy-assist-ed surgery were higher in the visceral obesity group than in the non-visceral obesity group. We found no significant differences in age, albumin level, hemoglobin count, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) stage, Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS) 2002 score, Charlson comorbidity index, tumor location, TNM stage, lymphatic invasion, and laparoscopy-assisted surgery between the two groups. The postoperative complication rate was significantly higher in the visceral obesity group than in the non-visceral obesity group (35.9% vs . 19% , P=0.033). A multivariate Logistic regression analysis revealed that visceral obesity [odds ratio (OR)=2.732, P=0.019] and NRS 2002 scores of≥3 (OR=2.574, P=0.042) were independent risk factors for postoperative complications. Conclusions:Visceral obesity was an independent risk factor for complications after surgery for mid-low rectal cancers.

Punto de corte para el índice de adiposidad visceral en una población venezolana: resultados del Estudio de prevalencia de síndrome metabólico de Maracaibo / Optimal cutoff for visceral adiposity index in a Venezuelan population: Results from the Maracaibo City Metabolic Syndrome Prevalence Study

Aim: Visceral obesity is one of the most intensely researched cardiometabolic risk factors in recent years; nonetheless, its accurate assessment remains a challenge in regions were socioeconomic conditions hinder the widespread use of diagnostic methods for this purpose, such as imaging tests. In this setting, Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) may be a useful tool. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the VAI cutoff in adult population from Maracaibo City, Venezuela. Methods: This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study with multi-staged sampling; 2026 subjects of both genders aged ≥18 years were selected from this database and had their VAI calculated. In order to determine VAI cutoffs, subsamples of metabolically healthy and sick individuals were determined, with 599 and 286 subjects, respectively. Gender-specific and general ROC curves were plotted in order to identify the most suitable cutoff according to sensitivity and specificity. Results: Median VAI in the selected sample was 1.67 (0.97-2.78). The optimal cutoff was determined to be 1.91, with 70.3% sensitivity, 70.3% specificity [AUC = 0.777 (0.745-0.808)]. No differences were found between genders. Analysis by age revealed VAI to have greater predictive power among subjects aged < 30 years (cutoff: 1.53), 78.6% sensitivity, 72.8% specificity [AUC = 0.797 (0.709-0.884)]. Conclusion: We suggest a VAI cutoff of 1.9 for define dysfunctional adiposity in our population, with age being an important factor in the epidemiologic behavior of this variable, particularly in younger individuals.

Objetivo: La obesidad central es uno de los factores de riesgo cardiometabólicos emergente más evaluado durante los últimos años, sin embargo, su medición de forma precisa resulta un reto en aquellas poblaciones cuyas condiciones económicas dificultan la realización de métodos diagnósticos complejos, como pruebas de imagen. Por ello el objetivo de este estudio es determinar el punto de corte del índice de adiposidad visceral (VAI) en sujetos adultos de la ciudad de Maracaibo, Venezuela. Métodos: Se seleccionó a 2.026 individuos de ambos sexos, mayores de 18 años, de la base de datos del Estudio de prevalencia de síndrome metabólico en la ciudad de Maracaibo, un estudio descriptivo, transversal, con muestreo multietápico. El VAI se calculó para cada sexo y para la estimación del punto corte se seleccionó a 599 sujetos sanos y 286 enfermos, realizándose curvas COR para identificar el mejor valor de acuerdo con la sensibilidad y la especificidad. Resultados: El promedio de VAI en la muestra seleccionada fue 1,67 (0,97-2,78). El punto de corte fue 1,91 (70,3% de sensibilidad y 70,3% de especificidad) con AUC = 0,777 (0,745-0,808), sin diferencias en el punto de corte según sexo. En el análisis por grupos etarios la mayor capacidad predictiva fue para el grupo < 30 años con AUC = 0,797 (0,709-0,884), con un punto de corte de 1,53 (78,6% de sensibilidad y 72,8% de especificidad). Conclusión: El punto de corte indicado para VAI en nuestra población es de 1,9; considerando la edad como un factor importante en su comportamiento, especialmente en los grupos más jóvenes.

The relationship between visceral obesity and hyperuricemia in adults of Heping District of Tianjin / 天津医药

Objective To analyze the relationship between visceral obesity and hyperuricemia (HUA), and to provide the basis for the further study of obesity and HUA. Methods A total of 1 824 participants came from Tianjin Heping District Health Education Guidance Center in 2014 were selected in this study. The investigation was performed with physical examination and laboratory test for all subjects. Body fat analyzer was used to measure the visceral fat area (VFA). The Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between visceral obesity and HUA. Results The prevalence of HUA in men and women increased gradually with VFA increasing (P<0.05). There was a positive correlation between VFA, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and serum uric acid (SUA) level (P<0.05). According to the results of Logistic regression analysis, VFA (OR=1.805,95%CI=1.166-2.794) and WHR (OR=2.108,95%CI=1.061-4.189) were the risk factors of HUA in men. And in women, VFA (OR=1.775,95%CI=1.154-2.732), WC (OR=2.015, 95%CI=1.137- 3.570) and WHR (OR=2.489, 95% CI=1.400- 4.426) were the risk factors of HUA. Conclusion The accumulation of visceral fat will increase the risk of HUA. So it is necessary to strengthen the detection of visceral obesity to prevent the development of HUA.

Obesidad y síndrome metabólico en niños y adolescentes / Obesity and metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents

La obesidad y el síndrome metabólico se encuentran íntimamente relacionados con los casos de enfermedad cardiovascular; son considerados habitualmente como propios de la población adulta aunque se observan con una frecuencia creciente en niños y adolescentes. Existe evidencia de que las lesiones ateroescleróticas se presentan con más frecuencia en jóvenes obesos. Los factores involucrados en esta pandemia son múltiples e incluyen desde variables genético-biológicas hasta cambios culturales. La familia y el entorno en el que el niño se desarrolla juegan un papel fundamental en la adopción de los hábitos relacionados con la alimentación y la actividad física. Esta problemática no respeta fronteras ni culturas sino que todos los países están siendo afectados, más aún aquellos de ingresos medios. El papel que le cabe al Estado y a la sociedad en su conjunto se orienta a modificar este medio ambiente. La restricción en las ventas de alimentos poco saludables y la lucha contra el sedentarismo son políticas que urgen ser aplicadas. El impacto que estos trastornos tendrán en términos de enfermedad cardiovascular, no ha cobrado aún su verdadera dimensión.

Obesity and the metabolic syndrome are closely related to the cases of cardiovascular disease; they are usually regarded as belonging to the adult population but are seen with increasing frequency in children and adolescents. There is evidence that atherosclerotic lesions occur most often in young people with obesity. The factors involved in this pandemic are manifold and range from genetic-biological to cultural changes. The family and the environment in which the child develops play a key role in the adoption of habits related to diet and physical activity. This problem does not respect borders and cultures but all countries are being affected, even more those of middle-income. State and Society as a whole can play a role oriented to modify this environment. The restriction on sales of unhealthy food and the fight against the sedentary lifestyle are urgently needed to be applied. The impact that these disorders will have in terms of cardiovascular disease, has not yet reached its true dimension.

Effect and the probable mechanisms of silibinin in regulating insulin resistance in the liver of rats with non-alcoholic fatty liver

Our previous study has shown that reduced insulin resistance (IR) was one of the possible mechanisms for the therapeutic effect of silibinin on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in rats. In the present study, we investigated the pathways of silibinin in regulating hepatic glucose production and IR amelioration. Forty-five 4- to 6-week-old male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into a control group, an HFD group (high-fat diet for 6 weeks) and an HFD + silibinin group (high-fat diet + 0.5 mg kg-1·day-1 silibinin, starting at the beginning of the protocol). Both subcutaneous and visceral fat was measured. Homeostasis model assessment-IR index (HOMA-IR), intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test and insulin tolerance test (ITT) were performed. The expression of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) and of genes associated with hepatic gluconeogenesis was evaluated. Silibinin intervention significantly protected liver function, down-regulated serum fat, and improved IR, as shown by decreased HOMA-IR and increased ITT slope. Silibinin markedly prevented visceral obesity by reducing visceral fat, enhanced lipolysis by up-regulating ATGL expression and inhibited gluconeogenesis by down-regulating associated genes such as Forkhead box O1, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and glucose-6-phosphatase. Silibinin was effective in ameliorating IR in NAFLD rats. Reduction of visceral obesity, enhancement of lipolysis and inhibition of gluconeogenesis might be the underlying mechanisms.

Correlation between Complicated Diverticulitis and Visceral Fat

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship of complications related to diverticulitis and visceral obesity. The study was based on a retrospective case note review conducted at the Hanyang University Hospital. Patients were diagnosed with diverticulitis based on clinical symptoms and abdominal computed tomography (CT) findings and divided into two groups: those admitted with complicated diverticulitis and those with a simple diverticulitis episode. We compared the body mass index (BMI) and degree of visceral obesity, measured by abdominal CT. The study included 140 patients, 87 (62.1%) were simple diverticulitis and 53 (37.9%) were complicated diverticulitis. In the complicated diverticulitis group, 9 (6.4%) cases were recurrent, 29 (20.7%) were perforation or abscess patients, and 28 (20%) were patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Of the SIRS patients, 13 were involved in other complication groups. When comparing in the two groups, the complicated diverticulitis group had a significantly higher visceral fat area (128.57 cm2 vs 102.80 cm2, P = 0.032) and a higher ratio of visceral fat area/subcutaneous fat area (0.997 vs 0.799, P = 0.014). Visceral obesity is significantly associated with complications of diverticulitis.

The Association of Unintentional Changes in Weight, Body Composition, and Homeostasis Model Assessment Index with Glycemic Progression in Non-Diabetic Healthy Subjects

BACKGROUND: We performed a retrospective longitudinal study on the effects of changes in weight, body composition, and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) indices on glycemic progression in subjects without diabetes during a four-year follow-up period in a community cohort without intentional intervention. METHODS: From 28,440 non-diabetic subjects who participated in a medical check-up program in 2004, data on anthropometric and metabolic parameters were obtained after four years in 2008. Body composition analyses were performed with a bioelectrical impedance analyzer. Skeletal muscle index (SMI, %) was calculated with lean mass/weightx100. Subjects were divided into three groups according to weight change status in four years: weight loss ( or =5.0%). Progressors were defined as the subjects who progressed to impaired fasting glucose or diabetes. RESULTS: Progressors showed worse baseline metabolic profiles compared with non-progressors. In logistic regression analyses, the increase in changes of HOMA-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in four years presented higher odds ratios for glycemic progression compared with other changes during that period. Among the components of body composition, a change in waist-hip ratio was the strongest predictor, and SMI change in four years was a significant negative predictor for glycemic progression. Changes in HOMA beta-cell function in four years was a negative predictor for glycemic progression. CONCLUSION: Increased interval changes in HOMA-IR, weight gain and waist-hip ratio was associated with glycemic progression during a four-year period without intentional intervention in non-diabetic Korean subjects.

Trans fatty acids and metabolic syndrome / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

There is a close relationship between high trans fatty acids intake and occurrence of metabolic syndrome. Trans fatty acids intake may lead to metabolic disorders. It affects lipid level, induces visceral obesity and insulin resistance, triggers systemic inflammation, and significantly increases cardiometabolic risks. If the chain of trans fatty acids-metabolic syndrome-cardiovascular disease is understood, a new effective way to prevent metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular events may be provided.

Primary pioglitazone failure in Asian Indian diabetics is not related to common Pro12Ala polymorph of ppar- γ gene.

To determine the various factors influencing glycemic response to pioglitazone mono therapy in newly diagnosed Asian Indian T2DM patients. Thirty T2DM patients (age 53.23±8.067 yrs, M : F ratio 14:16) were treated with pioglitazone for at least 14 weeks. Relationship between its glucose lowering effect and following patient parameters was studied: BMI, W:H ratio, HOMA-R, HOMA-β and Pro12Ala polymorph of PPAR-γ gene. Glycemic targets could be achieved in 20 (66.67%) subjects. All the parameters were comparable among responders and non-responders at the start of therapy. All the participants were homozygous for Pro allele of Pro12Ala polymorph of PPAR-γ gene. There was a significant positive association between glycemic response to pioglitazone and W: H ratio (beta = 0.426, P = 0.034) and HOMA-R (beta = 0.563, P = 0.008). Primary pioglitazone failure cannot be explained on the basis of body fat and its distribution, insulin resistance and secretory function and Pro12Ala polymorph of PPAR-γ gene. Among responders central obesity and high insulin resistance were associated with better glycemic response.

The Correlation Between Visceral Fat Distance Measured by Ultrasonography and Visceral Fat Amount by Computed Tomography in Type 2 Diabetes / 당뇨병

BACKGROUND: Visceral adipose tissue accumulation highly correlates with metabolic abnormalities and cardiovascular disease. Computed tomography (CT) is considered to be the standard method for visceral fat evaluation, but it is not used as a routine procedure. Ultrasonography (US) is a safe method, fairly inexpensive and widely available modality for measuring abdominal fat thickness. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between the intra-abdominal fat distance by US measurement and the visceral fat amount by CT and cardiovascular risk factors and to evaluate whether the intra-abdominal fat distance is better correlate with visceral fat amount by CT than other anthropometric parameters and to assess the cut-off value of intra-abdominal fat distance for visceral obesity in type 2 diabetic patients. METHODS: We obtained abdominal subcutaneous and intra-abdominal fat distance by using a high-resolution US (HDI 5000, ATL, Phillps, USA) at 1 cm above umbilical level in one hundred twenty-eight type 2 diabetic patients. CT scan (Light Speed plus, GE, USA) for the measurement of subcutaneous and intra-abdominal visceral fat area was also performed in the supine position at the L4-5 level. Lean body mass and % body fat were measured in a bioimpedance using DSM (Direct Segmental Measurement by 8-point electrode) method (InBody 3.0, Biospace, Seoul, Korea). We measured patient's height, weight, BMI (Body mass index), waist circumference, WHR(Waist-hip ratio) and blood pressure and also measured fasting blood glucose, HbA1c and lipid profiles. RESULTS: Abdominal subcutaneous and visceral fat distance measured by US is 2.05 +/- 0.52 cm, 4.43 +/- 1.54 cm, respectively. In pearson's correlations, visceral fat distance were correlated with BMI (r = 0.681, P < 0.001), waist circumference (r = 0.661, P < 0.001), WHR (r = 0.571, P < 0.001), triglyceride (r = 0.316, P < 0.001), HDL-cholesterol (r = -0.207, P < 0.004). US-determined visceral fat distance was also correlated with visceral fat amount by CT (r = 0.674, P < 0.001) and BMI (r = 0.610, P < 0.001), waist circumference (r = 0.626, P < 0.001), WHR (r = 0.557, P < 0.001). When we used waist circumference (men: 90 cm, women: 85 cm) as parameters for visceral obesity, the cutoff value of visceral fat distance, obtained by the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, were 4.670 cm in men, 3.695 cm in women diabetic patients. CONCLUSION: Intra-abdominal fat distance measured by US reveals strongly correlated with visceral fat area, which is determined by CT and also well correlated with anthropometric parameters and lipid profiles. We suggest that US provided a better index compared to anthropometry for the prediction of visceral obesity and could be an alternative method for CT for visceral fat determination in diabetic patients.

Visceral Obesity

Multiple lines of evidence support the thesis that visceral adiposity is causally related to insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome. Visceral adipose tissue is biochemically quite distinct from subcutaneous adipose tissue. It has become increasingly evident that the effects of visceral adiposity must be mediated by multiple factors. The release of free fatty acid from visceral adipose tissue in obese individuals has been reported to account for 20% of that delivered to the liver, and it is unlikely that the contribution of visceral fat to the free fatty acid flux in the circulation is the major mechanism of insulin resistance. Adiponectin and other newly discovered adipokines are likely to contribute to attenuate the effects of visceral obesity onto insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance and the metabolic impacts are the consequence of the metabolic effects of the products being released from the adipose tissue rather than an effect of the absolute mass of the fat. Adipose tissue releases free fatty acids and cytokines and modulates the secretion of a large number of metabolically active adipokines. Abdominal circumference is one of indicators for visceral obesity. The abdominal circumference values among Koreans are discussed by active groups.

Visceral Abdominal Fat as a Determinant of Arterial Stiffness in Overweight and Obese Women

BACKGROUND: Increased abdominal obesity is clearly associated with metabolic diseases and associated with increased risk for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. But the mechanisms underlying these associations are not completely understood. The aim of this study was to correlate the regional body composition with pulse wave velocity in the overweight and obese women. METHODS: We investigated 104 overweight and obese participants. Regional body composition was distinguished by anthropometry, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and computed tomography (CT). For estimates of arterial stiffness, we measured brachial ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). Fasting blood glucose, lipid parameters, CRP, and free fatty acid were measured. Pearson's correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis were conducted to identify the relationship between baPWV and regional body composition. RESULTS: Average age, fasting blood sugar, HDL-cholesterol, triglyceride, HOMA-IR, abdominal visceral fat area measured by CT, visceral fat area/ subcutaneous fat area (VSR), and visceral fat area/midthigh muscle area (VMR) were all significantly higher in the visceral obesity group than the subcutaneous obesity group. BaPWV was positively correlated with age, blood pressure, triglyceride, waist circumference, waist hip ratio, abdominal visceral fat area measured by CT, and VSR and inversely correlated with thigh subcutaneous fat area. In multiple regression models, after adjustment for confounding factors, baPWV was independently correlated with abdominal visceral fat area measured by CT (R2=0.560, P=0.006). CONCLUSION: Abdominal visceral fat area measured by CT was the only measurement positively associated with baPWV which explains the relationship of regional body composition and arterial stiffness.

The significance of waist to hip ratio in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease / 医学研究生学报

Objective: To evaluate the importance of waist to hip ratio among all the possible risk factors in the development of NAFLD. Methods: The samples were selected from individuals receiving physical examination from the 14th of October to the 4th of November in 2004.The enrolling criteria were as follows:①BMI between 25-29.9.②ethanol consumption was less than 40 g per week.③markers of hepatitis virus were negative.④no diabetes mellitus.The diagnosis of fatty liver was based on sonographic evidence.According to the standards,81 cases were chosen,including 59 patients with NAFLD and 22 normal controls.Seven indices were recorded in fasting state: age,BMI,waist to hip ratio(WHR),serum cholesterol,serum lipid,serum glucose and insulin sensitivity index.Results: The fatty liver group,compared with the normal controls,was significantly marked with higher BMI(26.70 vs 26.15,(P=)0.026), WHR(0.90 vs 0.86,P=0.002),serum lipid(1.99 vs 1.42 P=0.001) and lower insulin sensitive index(0.025 vs 0.039,P=0.005).By binary logistic regression analysis,WHR and insulin sensitive index is significantly associated with the development of NAFLD,and the P value is 0.01 and 0.069 respectively. Conclusion: WHR is an independent factor in the development of NAFLD in patients with BMI matched and non-DM mild fatty individuals.

The Association between Obesity Indices and Physical Fitness

BACGROUND: Physical fitness is defined as the ability to carry out work necessary for muscle exercise satisfactorily. Generally, obese person have been considered to have low physical performance. In addition, obesity has been known to be a risk factor of cardiovascular disease such as hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and coronary arterial disease. Based on previous epidemiologic studies, abdominal obesity, especially, visceral obesity, is thought to be more important risk factor for cardiovascular disease rather than obesity itself. Therefore, the interest on assessment of abdominal visceral fat has been increasing. The aim of this study was to see the difference in physical fitness and blood pressure according to obesity degree assessed by BMI, and compare the anthropometric obesity indices with abdominal visceral fat accumulation measured by abdominal CT (Computed Tomogram). METHODS: Four hundred thirty-two subjects, who participated in the exercise program for more than one month duration at the 'Clinic for Obesity' in St. Mary's Hospital from November 1998 to June 2000, were included in the analysis. They were categorized into 4 groups [severe obesity group (BMI 30), obesity group (25 BMI <30), overweight group (23 BMI<25), normal group (BMI<23)] according to their BMI. Blood pressure, anthropometric obesity indices and physical fitness (V02 max, back muscle strength, sit up, forward bending, vertical jump, side step, balance) were measured by one skillful exercise trainer. Among them, one hundred thirty-one subjects performed abdominal CT to assess visceral fatness. We compared anthropometric indices (waist to hip ratio, body mass index, abdominal circumference, skin foldness) with abdominal visceral fat accumulation measured by CT. RESULTS: Blood pressure, cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, muscle strength, speed and balance were significantly different among the four groups categorized by BMI in both sexes, but flexibility and agility were not significant. In women, the correlation coefficients between visceral fat area measured by abdominal CT and each of waist to hip ratio, BMI, abdominal circumference, and skin foldness adjusted for age were 0.487, 0.479, 0.464, 0.31, respectively (P<0.01). However in men, there were no significant correlations. CONCLUSION: Obesity tended to increase blood pressure, and reduce physical performance. Only in women, obesity related indices reflected the abdominal visceral fat accumulation.